Player ratings from Borussia Dortmund’s 0-0 stalemate with Sporting in the UEFA Champions League knockout playoffs

Niko Kovač’s side will be satisfied with the draw since Dortmund won the tie 3-0 on aggregate, advancing them to the Last-Sixteen.
Borussia Dortmund v Sporting Clube de Portugal - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout
Borussia Dortmund v Sporting Clube de Portugal - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout | Lars Baron/GettyImages
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Marcel Sabitzer (6/10) – Marcel Sabitzer has improved since Niko Kovač took over, but he still hasn’t reached his form from last season. He created a few chances and had a great shot from range, but at times looked like his reaction time was lagging. 

Pascal Groß (5/10) – Playing every few days seems to be taking a toll on Pascal Groß. He won a few important tackles in midfield, but his passing was poor throughout the match. Perhaps with rest, he’ll improve.

Julian Brandt (4/10) – Brandt looked gassed the entire game. It’s very disappointing to watch a player like Julian Brandt struggle for form all season, then produce a second-half display like he did last week, and then revert to poor form. Hopefully, Niko Kovač can summon the player we know Brandt can be.